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Close county commission results could mean recount

With a difference of only 45 votes, tight election results for one of three available seats on the Grand Forks County Commission could result in an automatic recount after Nov. 13.

There was a 0.08 percent difference between candidates Tom Falck and Kyle Kvamme Tuesday night, according to unofficial results from all 27 precincts. County Auditor Debbie Nelson said her office is still waiting for late absentee ballots postmarked on Nov. 5. Voters who cast "set-aside" ballots also have until a canvassing advisory board meets on Nov. 13 to show proper ID at their polling places.

Once all of the results are in, if there's still a half-percent difference the county will initiate an automatic recount. She added candidates can demand and pay for a recount if there's a difference of 2 percent or less.

Outgoing Sheriff Bob Rost led Tuesday night with 27.8 percent of the popular vote. Incumbent Diane Knauf came in second with 25.25 percent of the popular vote, and Jeffrey Powell was last with 11.44 percent.